REGINA — Pool B’s top teams will meet Saturday at the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, and the result
could have serious playoff implications.

The Czech Republic (1-0-1) plays undefeated Pacific (2-0) in Regina, and needs to win if they are to have
a shot at first place in the pool. Czech coach Zdenek Cech suggested they could knock off Pacific if they get
more scoring.

“We know (Pacific) will be forechecking hard, and they will go forward. If our defence and our players
succeed on one-on-one battles and get the puck, then we have a pretty good chance to succeed in the game
too,” Cech said through an interpreter.

While Pacific has outscored its first two opponents 16-7, the Czech’s offensive numbers have been more
modest, with six goals for, and four against. The Czech coach thought there was reason to believe his club
may have more goals in their future.

“Finland was one step ahead of us, so we couldn’t score with our chances. We had plenty of two-on-ones and
three-on-ones, but we couldn’t score. We are happy because it was a good effort,” Cech said.

Momentum is key in short round-robin tournaments, and Pacific coach Craig Bedard noted playing a late game
one night and the early game the next day could impact how the team prepares for the important game.

“We will make a few adjustments, but as far as the game plan goes, and the game preparation goes, nothing
changes,” Bedard said. “It’s a long tournament and rest will be important as it goes on.”

One of Bedard’s goals for Pacific is to be a consistent club throughout the tournament. While the
statistics would state that goal is in reach, the coach noted there’s still room to grow.

“We are still trying to get better each and every day,” Bedard said. “Obviously, with a couple of wins and
the exhibition game, we are happy with the start. But there is still a lot of work to do. Winning is nice and
it helps with that tea-building phase, but … it’s still early.”